Press Release

Contact Information: Mary Mitros 630-407-6706

Thursday, September 4, 2014

Stormwater Management Resumes Pump Back Operations at Elmhurst Quarry

On Thursday afternoon, DuPage County Stormwater Management resumed normal pump back operations at the Elmhurst Quarry Flood Facility, after they were temporarily suspended due to an irregular odor noticed by nearby residents. At the time, DuPage County staff identified the cause of the odor as an algal bloom in the east lobe of the Quarry.

Per the operating plan, floodwater collected in the Elmhurst Quarry from recent rain events was beginning to be pumped back into Salt Creek on Wednesday in order to increase the Quarry’s capacity for future rain events. County staff began this process after confirming river elevations in the adjacent Salt Creek had receded enough to handle the excess water. However, the lack of oxygen in the stored floodwater caused the algal bloom, which can occur in streams, ponds, lakes and even oceans.

At no time was there a threat of raw sewage entering the Elmhurst Quarry. For questions or concerns, please call (630) 407-6796.